If it's October and it's a presidential election year, then it's just about time for a so-called “October surprise.”

That means any late-breaking event that can change the outcome of the race.

For example: Twelve days before the 1972 presidential election, Henry Kissinger made a major announcement about the Vietnam War, saying "We believe peace is at hand." This likely helped the incumbent Richard Nixon go on to win every state but Massachusetts.

The most famous October surprise was one that never came. In 1980, Republicans were worried that President Jimmy Carter would be boosted in his re-election bid by a rescue or release of the American hostages in Iran. That didn't happen - and Ronald Reagan won the election in a landslide.

More recently, Osama bin Laden released a video four days before the 2004 election. This reminder of the 9/11 attacks probably helped George W. Bush win a second term.

The year 2008 saw the financial meltdown, which technically started in September with the collapse of Lehman Brothers. It was a moment that boosted Barack Obama and highlighted John McCain's weakness on the economy.

So what about 2012?

That old video of an angry speech with racial overtones by then-candidate Obama which resurfaced last night could sway voters.

Or maybe the surprise is still lurking. Tonight's debate certainly has the potential to provide one.

There's always a chance for significant economic news - a jobs report, or the potential of the U.S. falling off that fiscal cliff.

And it's not hard to imagine some unexpected event in the Middle East. Take your pick: Iran, Israel, Syria, Libya.

Here’s my question to you: What will be the “October Surprise” in this year’s presidential election?

Tune in to the Situation Room at 5pm to see if Jack reads your answer on air.

And, we love to know where you’re writing from, so please include your city and state with your comment.

About this Blog:

Jack Cafferty sounds off hourly on the Situation Room on the stories crossing his radar. Now, you can check in with Jack online to see what he's thinking and weigh in with your own comments online and on TV.